MS Dhoni Not a Top Retention Priority for CSK?

Some reports indicate that MS Dhoni is not a priority player for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) retention list. The CSK franchise currently grapples with including top players in its retention lineup ahead of IPL 2025.

Which Players are Likely to Feature in the CSK IPL 2025 Retention List?

Reports suggest that the IPL will prioritize retaining players like Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana, and Shivam Dube ahead of IPL 2025. Current realities suggest that Dhoni may not find a place in CSK’s IPL squad unless rules change.

How Can MS Dhoni Play in CSK at IPL 2025?

Dhoni can only play at the CSK next season if retentions increase. Only four (4) retentions are allowed for franchises at auction along with

Will MS Dhoni Move to Another Franchise if CSK Do Not Retain Him?

Dhoni has expressed his desire to retire at the CSK franchise. However, the cricketer could be tempted by any prospect to feature in another competitive IPL season if good offers come up.

CSK Proposes to Add MS Dhoni as an Uncapped Player

The BCCI hopes to retain MS Dhoni through a rule once used in previous seasons – the uncapped player list. CSK’s request will likely not get much support, seeing that other franchises want to weaken their IPL 2025 campaign. Leaving Dhoni out can be a massive blow to CSK’s potential charge to another IPL title next season.

IPL Teams Reject CSK’s Uncapped Player Proposal

There is an agreement among franchise owners to reject the CSK’s proposal to add Dhoni as an uncapped player. The uncapped player rule has not been in effect for half a decade, bringing back this option could be unfair to opposing franchises.

Why is CSK Hoping to Keep MS Dhoni?

Massive player influence

The huge influence MS Dhoni wields over CSK is undeniable. He is one of India’s most successful cricketers ever at international and franchise level. Many top cricketers today see Dhoni as a mentor. His stay at the CSK will benefit squad players as they aim to secure a sixth IPL title in 2025.

Successful career at the franchise

MS Dhoni has been involved in every CSK title-winning squad since the IPL began in 2008. The cricketer has lifted five (5) IPL titles so far with CSK.

He left CSK once to feature for the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS). His sole RPS season almost led to a sixth IPL title as they got to the IPL final in that season. He is one of the IPL’s most-decorated players, and any franchise would love to have him in their squad.

Why Would the BCCI Drop Dhoni If Retentions Don’t Increase?

The BCCI may decide against increasing how many players IPL franchises can retain. CSK would likely decide to let Dhoni go if retention numbers do not increase to 5 or more players before auction. Factors that could trigger Dhoni’s exit from CSK if the BCCI don’t boost retention numbers are:

Dhoni’s age

Many cricketers from MS Dhoni’s era are retired, but the 43-year-old cricketer is still going strong. Dhoni’s longevity is one for the history books, as he played alongside greats like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, and other top names. However, it could be time to call off his long cricket career seeing potential controversies arise over his position.

Capable young talent

CSK continues to rebuild their squad ahead of Dhoni’s retirement or exit. Impressive young talent in CSK’s ranks may drive their decision let Dhoni go before IPL 2025.

Reduced role since IPL 2023

MS Dhoni has not been at the centre of most fast-paced cricket action since IPL 2022. His performances on the pitch are still great, but he has had to tone down taking part in some games since 2023. In IPL 2024, Dhoni decided to hand CSK’s captaincy role to Ruturaj Gaikwad, further reducing his roles at the franchise.

Dhoni phasing out roles at CSK could indicate his willingness to retire if the franchise can’t get him retained next season.

Likely Retained Players at IPL 2025 Mega Auction